Chapter 3: Allies and Enemies

Leo wandered the streets, gathering bits and pieces of information. The world he was in was a parallel version of his own, where every human was forced into this brutal survival game. Those who refused to participate were ruthlessly executed by the enigmatic game masters.

He discovered a group of survivors huddled in an abandoned warehouse. They eyed him warily as he approached, their weapons drawn. Leo raised his hands in a gesture of peace.

"I'm not here to fight," he said. "I just need to understand what's going on."

A tall woman with short, cropped hair stepped forward. "You're new here, aren't you?"

Leo nodded. "I woke up in this body. My name is Leo."

The woman's gaze softened slightly. "I'm Maria. This is our group. We stick together to survive. What's your talent?"

Leo hesitated, then decided honesty was his best chance. "I can control zombies."

Gasps and murmurs rippled through the group. Maria's eyes widened. "An S-rank talent. That's rare."

Leo pulled out the Evolution Crystal from his pocket. "I also have this. It can evolve my skill."

Maria's eyes lit up with hope. "That could change everything. With evolved control over zombies, we could secure safer territory, gather resources, and fend off attacks more effectively."

Leo felt a spark of determination. He wasn't just a passive participant in this game. He had the potential to make a real difference. He crushed the Evolution Crystal in his hand, feeling a surge of energy course through him.

A new notification appeared:

Talent Evolution Successful: New Skill: Auto-Hunting Zombies Description: Controlled zombies can now hunt autonomously, bringing resources and protecting the user.

Leo grinned. "Let's see how they handle this."